Father, Son Duo Launch Sailing Team At Ridge High School

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Ridge High School now has a sailing team thanks to a father and son duo.

The Bernards Township Board of Education unanimously voted to approve the formation of the sailing team at the April 11 meeting.

The team was brought to the board's attention by Dr. Philip Leopold and his son Matthew who is a student at the high school.

"I want to thank everyone for their support. It's been a long road to get to this point but we now feel we are in a very good position in terms of having a terrific coach," said Leopold at the meeting.

The team will be coached by Stew Conway who has been sailing boats that range in size from 14-foot to 43-foot since 1965 across the globe.

"Our kids could not be in better hands for their training," said Leopold.

The team will begin with six students. The parents have purchased the equipment needed for the team.

Superintendent Nick Markarian said the district is not purchasing boats.

"The BOE's policy for the first few years is that the families involved in starting the program are footing the bill," said Markarian.

An agreement has also been established with the Raritan Yacht Club in Perth Amboy where the team will be using the club's boats.

Transportation will be handled by parents themselves, said Markarian.

"We can't wait to get into the boats," said Leopold. "I think this will be a great thing for the students this year and going forward."

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.

Get Patch breaking news alerts sent right to your phone with our new app. Download here. Don't miss local and statewide announcements. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.